Accrington Stanley matchwinner Sean McConville almost subbed before he shot down Mansfield Town

John Lomas

Accrington Stanley manager John Coleman admitted he was about to substitute Sean McConville minutes before his deflected first half winner against Mansfield Town last night.

The goal changed a game in which Stags had been on top and Coleman said: “Sean will always get goals.

“But it was ironic as he was close to being substituted after 25 minutes as he was a having a horror show – and he wasn’t alone. But he popped up with a great goal and after that he was a threat all night and unlucky not to score again.

“We were delighted to win. You don’t want to be going too many games at the start of the season as it builds up the pressure and people get nervous.

“It was a poor start by us, but we got through the adversity of the first 35 minutes when they were comfortably the better side and scored against the run of play. Then second half we pinned them back, made a host of chances and should have had more goals. We played with an energy and a determination.

“Apart from a lob, and it’s a good job we have a 6ft high keeper, they didn’t really trouble our goal.

“You’ve got to give Mansfield credit. They are a good side and they were missing their main player tonight (striker Matt Green). When he comes back in their side they will give teams a lot of trouble.”